Every Persona Game and Spin-Off in Order

The *Persona* series, initially a *Shin Megami Tensei* spin-off, has blossomed into a major RPG franchise, captivating audiences with its compelling narratives, memorable characters, and stunning visuals. From numerous sequels and remakes to anime and stage productions, *Persona*'s multimedia reach is undeniable, and its popularity continues to soar. With *Persona 3 Reload* now available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and PC, newcomers might wonder where to begin their *Persona* journey. This guide provides a complete overview of every game and spin-off, highlighting the best starting points for new players and outlining both chronological and release order.

Jump to:

• How to Play in Order
• How to Play by Release Date
• Upcoming Releases

How Many Persona Games Are There?

Currently, there are twenty *Persona* games. This includes expanded versions, such as re-releases with additional content or full remakes. This guide excludes simple ports or remasters, but notes all alternate versions.

Which Persona Game Should You Play First?

For newcomers, *Persona 3 Reload*, *Persona 4 Golden*, and *Persona 5 Royal* are excellent starting points. These are the most recent versions of the third, fourth, and fifth mainline entries, readily available on PC and major consoles (*Persona 3 Reload* excludes Nintendo Switch). Each game features a self-contained narrative with original characters, making them ideal entry points. To help decide, watch gameplay videos and explore information on the social links within each game to find the best fit.

Persona 3 Reload

Available on PS5, PS4, and Xbox Series X.

Persona 4 Golden

Available on PC, Xbox, PS5, and Nintendo Switch

Persona 5 Royal

Available on PC, Xbox, PS5, and Nintendo Switch

Every Persona Game and Spin-Off in Chronological Order

(Note: The following blurbs contain minor spoilers.)

1. Revelations: Persona (1996)

The inaugural *Persona* title, building upon the success of *Shin Megami Tensei: If…*. It features high school students battling demons in Mikage-cho, utilizing Personas in combat and introducing core elements like the Velvet Room.

2. Persona 2: Innocent Sin (1999)

Following a new group of students led by Tatsuya Suou, who confront the villain Joker and the Masked Circle cult amidst a town where malicious rumors come to life. It maintains the dungeon-crawling gameplay and Persona-based combat.

3. Persona 2: Eternal Punishment (2000)

A direct sequel to *Innocent Sin*, featuring Maya Amano as the protagonist, continuing the story and gameplay style of its predecessor.

4. Persona 3 (2006) / Persona 3 FES (2007) / Persona 3 Portable (2009) / Persona 3 Reload (2024)

A significant evolution, introducing a daily calendar system balancing school life with dungeon exploration in Tartarus. Makoto Yuki confronts a demonic threat during the Dark Hour. This entry established many series staples, including social links.

Alternate Versions of Persona 3: *FES* added "The Answer," *Portable* featured a female protagonist (but not "The Answer"), and *Reload* is a modern remake (excluding "The Answer" and the female protagonist route).

5. Persona 3: Dancing in Moonlight (2018)

A rhythm game spin-off set during the *Persona 3* storyline.

6. Persona 4 (2008) / Persona 4 Golden (2012)

Set in rural Inaba, following Yu Narukami who investigates a series of murders linked to a mysterious world accessed through televisions. It expands on *Persona 3*'s mechanics, incorporating social links and a calendar system.

Alternate Versions of Persona 4: *Persona 4 Golden* is an enhanced re-release with additional content.

7. Persona Q: Shadow of the Labyrinth (2014)

A crossover between *Persona 3* and *Persona 4*, featuring a time-bending event that brings the casts together.

8. Persona 4 Arena (2012)

A fighting game spin-off featuring characters from *Persona 3* and *4*.

9. Persona 4 Arena Ultimax (2013)

A sequel to *Persona 4 Arena* with an expanded roster.

10. Persona 4: Dancing All Night (2015)

A rhythm game spin-off featuring the *Persona 4* cast.

11. Persona 5 (2016) / Persona 5 Royal (2019)

Set in Tokyo, following Joker, a probationer who joins the Phantom Thieves to infiltrate palaces and change the hearts of evildoers. It builds upon previous installments' mechanics.

Alternate Versions of Persona 5: *Persona 5 Royal* is an expanded version with new content.

12. Persona Q2: New Cinema Labyrinth (2018)

A sequel to *Persona Q*, featuring another crossover between various *Persona* characters.

13. Persona 5 Tactica (2023)

A strategy spin-off set during the events of *Persona 5*.

14. Persona 5: Dancing in Starlight (2018)

A rhythm game spin-off featuring the *Persona 5* cast.

15. Persona 5 Strikers (2020)

A spin-off set after *Persona 5*, featuring real-time combat.

Every Persona Game and Spin-Off in Release Order

Revelations: Persona (1996)
Persona 2: Innocent Sin (1999)
Persona 2: Eternal Punishment (2000)
Persona 3 (2006)
Persona 3 FES (2007)
Persona 4 (2008)
Persona 3 Portable (2009)
Persona 4 Arena (2012)
Persona 4 Golden (2012)
Persona 4 Arena Ultimax (2013)
Persona Q: Shadow of the Labyrinth (2014)
Persona 4: Dancing All Night (2015)
Persona 5 (2016)
Persona 3: Dancing in the Moonlight (2018)
Persona 5: Dancing in Starlight (2018)
Persona Q2: New Cinema Labyrinth (2018)
Persona 5 Royal (2019)
Persona 5 Strikers (2020)
Persona 5 Tactica (2023)
Persona 3 Reload (2024)

What's Next for Persona?

Following the releases of *Persona 3 Reload* and *Metaphor: ReFantazio* in 2024, attention turns to *Persona 5: The Phantom X*, a free-to-play mobile game with a planned global release. While *Persona 6* is highly anticipated, official confirmation of its development is pending.